Fine Gael handlers to shield Enda Kenny from media

Enda Kenny is to be pressed to increase the number of migrants to be admitted to Ireland

TAOISEACH Enda Kenny will have his appearance "limited" throughout the General Election campaign by party strategists who fear he has been damaged by recent controversies.

Mr Kenny's leadership has for the first time been brought into focus as senior figures in both the Government and Fine Gael admit his handling of recent controversies has damaged the party's electoral prospects.

Fine Gael TDs are also reporting negative feedback from voters over Mr Kenny's handling of controversies surrounding Irish Water and the departure of former Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan.

For the first time since being elected Taoiseach, some of Mr Kenny's own supporters have voiced concern over his leadership. However, there have been no suggestions that his position as leader will be challenged.

Sources have said that Mr Kenny's prominence in the election will be strictly controlled because of concern about his media performances.